While some chose to participate on their own, others came in groups to show their support for the cause.
Glendale resident Rick Dinger and 12 members of his family wore blue T-shirts with the words “Team Gavin” printed on the backs.
They came to help raise money for the stroke center, where Dinger’s 4-year-old son, Gavin is receiving therapy after suffering a stroke in utero.
“It was a natural feel for us to show up and support,” Dinger said.
“It’s great for stroke awareness.”
Proceeds from the event will not only go to the stroke center but will also benefit education programs for the community, Cabatan said.
On Sunday, stroke survivor Evelyn Tan did her part to raise awareness about stroke.
“My mission is to help stroke survivors and make sure families know about it,” Tan, a Glendale resident, said.
After her stroke three years ago, Tan started going to Glendale Adventist for therapy. Although she is no longer in need of treatment, she still continues to be proactive for others.
“I really want to help the community learn about stroke,” she said.
On Sunday, Alexis Haftvani of Studio City was the first woman who finished the race in under 20 minutes.
Haftvani trained for the run after participating in the All About You Wellness Bootcamp in Glendale.
“It really gave me that extra push,” she said. “I had the goal to come out and do my best.”
The Downtown Glendale Merchants Assn. was one of the supporters of the event.
Glendale resident Albert Mesa decided do his part to raise awareness as a way of honoring his grandparents, both who died of strokes.
Mesa wore a T-shirt with a picture of his grandparents pinned on the back.
“Stroke has affected my family,” Mesa said, adding that he trained for the run and lost 33 pounds.
“For a first race, it was well organized. It shows that this community comes together for a good cause.”
ANI AMIRKHANIAN is a news assistant. She may be reached at (818) 637-3230 or by e-mail at ani.amirkhanian@latimes.com.
